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Crime trends targeting elderly populations in Iberia

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2026-08-17 13:06 UTC → 2026-08-17 19:02 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Reports from Portugal and Spain indicate a rise in criminal activities targeting elderly populations and residential properties. In Portugal, data shows an increase in fraud against the elderly, with 2,756 cases recorded in 2025. Criminals are reportedly using digital payment tools like MB WAY to execute sophisticated schemes. Advocates have also raised concerns that current legal protections, such as Law No. 7/2026, are ineffective due to poor communication and practical application gaps. In Spain, law enforcement agencies have warned of specialized theft methods targeting seniors, including the ‘abrazo cariñoso’ (affectionate hug) technique to steal jewelry, as well as vishing and smishing scams. Additionally, authorities have dismantled itinerant criminal groups involved in organized home burglaries using techniques like ‘impressioning’ to bypass locks. Recent developments in Spain confirm these trends. The National Police disrupted two itinerant gangs specializing in residential burglaries, resulting in seven arrests and the clarification of 32 crimes. In Calp, the Guardia Civil arrested three individuals for allegedly isolating and manipulating a 91-year-old woman to seize her assets. Authorities continue to report a rise in crimes targeting the elderly, including false investment schemes and the aforementioned ‘affectionate hug’ thefts.

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